New Zealand Local Hero Finalists

When White Ribbon Ambassador and White Ribbon Rider Colin Agnew was awarded his Kiwibank Community Hero Medal, he was hundreds of miles away on the White Ribbon Ride. His Grandson Flynn stepped in to accept the award and wrote this amazing speech about his Grandfather.

After the White Ribbon Ride he presented the award to his Granddad at home, something he was very proud to do.

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We would also like to congratulate White Ribbon Ambassador Tim Marshall for his recognition for the tremendous work he undertakes in the Gisborne community and at the Tauawhi Mens Centre.

Tim wrote this following his award. “Ehara taku toa, he toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini – as the whakatauki goes – my achievements are not mine alone but that of many that support me. I just want to acknowledge all of the kind words, thoughts and comments that have come my way over the last week. To be acknowledged as a local hero alongside others at a ceremony here last year was awesome, and to go on and have to opportunity to attend last week’s awards – alongside my family and among so many other awesome people was an honour and a privilege.

Tairawhiti is full of local heros doing great things and hopefully I could represent that by my being there. I want to specially thank my Mum & Dad Russell & Barbara, Amiria and Matt and Whetumarama (my greatest supporter) for being there. Also thanks to George & Charly, Phil and Sam (and whanau) for their support from afar and Ngahuia, who nominated me in 2014, which I think indrectly kicked all of this off! Also to my Family Works/PSEC whanau and the members of the Tauawhi brotherhood (and sisterhood) Nga mihi aroha ki a koutou katoa.” Tim Marshall

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Jackie talking about the work of White Ribbon at the awards

Two more White Ribbon Riders were recognised. Neil McKee is the Wellington President of the Widows Sons and is one of the North Island White Ribbon Riders. He was awarded the Local Hero medal for his efforts in promoting White Ribbon and for his work with the ‘Ride of Respec’t and ‘Heart Kids’. He is joined by his wife Alison.

Neil with the CEO OF Kiwi Bank getting his medal

Jackie Adams was awarded a medal for his work in organising the West Coast part of the White Ribbon Ride for the past four years, his work with Te Rito, the charity events he has run for Cancer Care, the RSA, Rescue Helicopter, St Johns and White Ribbon. Jackie was joined by his wife Tara on the night.